A 37-year-old mother and her two-year-old daughter have died from injuries sustained in Thursday’s car attack in Munich, according to police reports.
The incident, which injured at least 37 people, occurred when a car was driven into a crowd at a trade union rally. The driver, a 24-year-old Afghan asylum seeker identified as Farhad N., was arrested at the scene and has admitted to the attack, citing a religious motivation.
During questioning, the suspect told police he intentionally drove his Mini Cooper into the crowd, shouting “Allahu Akbar” (God is greatest) upon arrest. Munich public prosecutor Gabriele Tilmann suggested the attack may have had an Islamist motivation, although no links to jihadist groups were found.
Suspect’s Background: Asylum Seeker with No Criminal Record
The suspect arrived in Germany in 2016 and, despite a rejected asylum application, was allowed to stay due to risks of deportation to Afghanistan. He held a valid residence and work permit and had no prior criminal record. Authorities confirmed he acted alone.
German Elections and Migration Debate Intensify After Attack
The attack has reignited Germany’s migration debate ahead of federal elections on 23 February. Recent violent incidents linked to migrants have fueled support for the far-right AfD party, including a December 2023 Christmas market attack and a January 2024 stabbing in Bavaria.
The attack consequently, occurred on the eve of the Munich Security Conference, a global forum on security policy. US Vice-President JD Vance expressed condolences upon arrival, as the incident highlighted ongoing security challenges in Germany.
